Ep. 294 Updated Vasectomy Guidelines & Patient Counseling Best Practices with Dr. Akanksha Mehta

What are the key practice changes introduced in the new American Urological Association (AUA) vasectomy guidelines? In this episode of BackTable Urology, Dr. Akanksha Mehta (Emory University), Vice Chair of the AUA Vasectomy Guidelines Committee, joins Dr. Catherine Nam (University of Michigan) to discuss the latest updates to vasectomy practice.

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SYNPOSIS

Dr. Mehta and Dr. Nam review the key changes in vasectomy guidelines. They address common misconceptions about sexual function and long-term health risks, as well as the role of telemedicine consultation and day-of-procedure examination. Their discussion also covers recommended surgical techniques and updated guidance on post-vasectomy semen analysis, including mail-in testing options. Finally, Dr. Mehta outlines fertility considerations after vasectomy, including cryopreservation, reversal, and sperm retrieval with IVF, and how clinicians can counsel patients about expectations and referral pathways.

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TIMESTAMPS
00:00 - Introduction
02:07 - Why Update the Guidelines
05:38 - Key Guideline Changes
11:02 - Sexual Function Concerns
17:19 - Health Risks Debunked
21:28 - Periprocedural Best Practices
28:25 - Semen Analysis Follow Up
37:12 - Future of Male Contraception
39:11 - Conclusions

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RESOURCES

Vasectomy: AUA Guideline (2026)
https://www.auanet.org/guidelines-and-quality/guidelines/vasectomy-guideline